Henderson or Pettis? Thomson Outlines Who’s a Bigger Threat

Although Josh Thomson will no longer fight for the UFC Lightweight Championship at UFC on FOX 9, the decorated vet still has a massive assignment for January 25th, as he’ll take on former champion Benson Henderson. If Thomson wins, then one would assume he’ll be next in line for a title shot when Anthony Pettis returns from knee surgery, although that could depend on how long the champ’s out.

As any big fan knows, Henderson and Pettis are pretty different fighters when it comes to their make-up. While both men are ridiculously skilled, Henderson isn’t famous for busting out highlight reel and fight stopping strikes like “Showtime”. So what does Thomson think of the skill set he’ll have to deal with at UFC on FOX 10, compared to that of Pettis? Well, here is some of what “The Punk” told MMA Mania.com:

For me personally, stylistically, Benson is more of a threat than Pettis was. Not to mention that this is the opportunity to fight someone that has been the champ for the last couple years. For me, I think Benson has the bigger name. Not to take anything away from Pettis, but Henderson has been more active over the last two years, so there was no way I could pass on this opportunity.

Benson is so well rounded. Honestly, it’s like I’m looking at myself in a mirror, fight-wise, just with a left handed person. He offers everything from the grappling to the wrestling, the clinch work, the takedowns; it’s gonna be a tough fight. At any moment, the pace of the fight can change and go anywhere.

There’s no denying Henderson is the complete package. Thomson also argued that with Pettis, ” you know he’s going to pretty much try to keep it on the feet the whole time”, which is a good point. Considering the champion’s striking pedigree, however, it’s not hard to understand why.

UFC on FOX 10 will be hosted by the United Center in Chicago, Illinois.